A&D EK-6100i Manual, Explained: Setup, Units, Counting and Calibration

By MNM Scales · Last updated November 2, 2026

The A&D EK-6100i is a 6000 g x 0.1 g compact balance, the highest-capacity 0.1 g model in the Everest EK-i line. It has a 133 x 170 mm stainless pan, a backlit display, RS-232C and external calibration. A&D writes one instruction manual for the whole EK-i and EW-i family, so EK-6100i owners have to pick their numbers out of shared tables. Below are the EK-6100i figures from that manual, with the display messages exactly as the balance shows them.

EK-6100i manual at a glance: specifications

Item	EK-6100i
Capacity x readability	6000 g x 0.1 g
Repeatability (standard deviation)	0.1 g
Linearity	±0.2 g
Sensitivity drift	±20 ppm per °C (10 to 30 °C)
Stabilization time	About 2 seconds
Counting	Samples of 5, 10, 25, 50 or 100 pieces; up to 60,000 pieces; minimum unit weight 0.1 g
Percent mode	Minimum reference (100 percent) weight 10 g; readings to 0.1 percent
Display	Backlit 7-segment LCD, 16 mm characters, 10 updates per second
Pan and weight	133 x 170 mm (5.2 x 6.7 in) stainless pan; balance about 1.5 kg
Power	AC adapter, or the EKW-09i rechargeable battery pack (not included)
Operating range	-10 to 40 °C (14 to 104 °F), under 85 percent relative humidity, no condensation
Below-balance weighing	Under-hook assembly (OP-07 in the manual), not included
Calibration weight (factory setting)	6000 g, external; the value can be changed

Setting up the EK-6100i

1. Check the box: balance, pan, pan support, AC adapter and instruction manual. The battery pack, under-hook, printer, RS-232C cable and calibration weight are not included unless ordered. Keep the box and foam for mail-in service.
2. Pick the spot: a firm, level bench away from drafts, vents, direct sun, vibration and magnetic fields. A 6 kg load on a flimsy shelf flexes the shelf, and the last digit follows it.
3. Let it acclimate: a balance that arrived from a hot or cold delivery van should reach room temperature before you switch it on.
4. Fit the pan support and the rectangular pan, then turn the leveling feet until the bubble in the spirit level is centered.
5. Power it: plug in the AC adapter and press ON/OFF. The display shows all segments, then 0.0 g.
6. Warm up for 30 minutes, then calibrate; the steps are in the EK-6100i calibration section below.

Keys and the function menu

Key	When weighing	In the function menu
ON/OFF	Power on or off	–
MODE	Steps through the stored units, pcs and percent	Returns to weighing
SAMPLE	Starts sample storing in pcs or percent; hold to open func	Moves to the next item
PRINT	Sends the reading to a printer or PC	Stores the setting
RE-ZERO	Zeroes the display or tares a container	Changes the value

Hold SAMPLE until func appears to reach settings such as Cond (response speed), st-b (stability band), trc (zero tracking), poff (auto power-off), ltUp (backlight), prt and bps (data output). The full menu table, item by item, is in our EK-1200i manual guide; the EK-6100i menu is the same.

Weighing units on the EK-6100i

Unit	Display	EK-6100i capacity x readability
Gram	g	6000.0 x 0.1 g
Ounce (avoir)	oz	211.64 x 0.01 oz
Pound	lb	13.228 x 0.001 lb
Troy ounce	ozt	192.90 x 0.01 ozt
Metric carat	ct	30000 x 1 ct
Momme	mom	1600.00 x 0.05 mom
Pennyweight	dwt	3858.1 x 0.1 dwt
Grain	GN	92594 x 2 GN

Store only the units you use: hold SAMPLE until func shows, press SAMPLE until Unit appears and press PRINT. Press SAMPLE to step to a unit and RE-ZERO to store it; repeat for each unit you use, then press PRINT (end, then id) and MODE to return to weighing. The balance starts with the first unit you stored. The units available on your balance are set at the factory. For conversions on paperwork, use our grain to gram converter.

Counting parts on the EK-6100i

1. Press MODE until pcs shows, then press SAMPLE.
2. Press SAMPLE again to choose 5, 10, 25, 50 or 100 pieces.
3. Set a bin or tray on the pan if you use one and press RE-ZERO so the display shows zero beside the sample size.
4. Count that many pieces onto the pan and press PRINT to store the unit weight; remove them.
5. Load the parts to count and read the piece count.

• On the EK-6100i the smallest unit weight is 0.1 g and the maximum count is 60,000 pieces, so a full bin of washers, fasteners or labels fits in one count up to 6 kg.
• If the sample is light, the balance asks for more pieces with a prompt such as 25 -; add that many and press PRINT. lo means the unit weight is too light to store.
• ACAI (aCai) refines the unit weight when you add a few more pieces and wait for the ACAI mark to go out; leave the pan alone while it blinks.
• Counting is for inventory and production. For high-volume counting, see our counting scale buying guide.

Percent mode and the HI/OK/LO comparator

Percent mode reads a load against a reference you store as 100 percent. Press MODE to the percent display, press SAMPLE, press RE-ZERO, place the reference and press PRINT. On the EK-6100i the reference must weigh at least 10 g, and readings show to 0.1 percent. The comparator (Cp, CpHi, Cplo and bep in the function menu) shows HI, OK or LO against your limits for fill checks, kit checks and package checks.

Weighing below the balance with the under-hook

The EK-6100i is one of the EK-i models that accept A&D’s under-hook assembly (OP-07 in the manual; not included). It lets you weigh large or awkward items in suspension and run specific gravity checks. Remove the cover on the bottom of the balance and screw the under-hook into the mounting hole, then stand the balance on a frame or table with an opening so the load hangs freely. A&D calls for calibration with the weight hung on the hook for accurate below-balance weighing. Call us for the under-hook part and a quote. For the 12 kg model, where under-hook weighing is on the NTEP certificate at Class II, see our EK-12Ki manual guide.

RS-232C, printer and PC

• The port is a 9-pin D-Sub; use a straight-through cable to a PC (cable not included).
• Match bps (baud rate) and btpr (data bits and parity) to the other device, and choose the output with prt: on command, PRINT key, auto print on a stable load, or stream.
• An A&D AD-8121 printer (not included) needs pUse set to 1 for its 1.6-second pause.
• For a USB-only computer, A&D lists the AX-USB-1920-9P USB to 9-pin RS-232 converter (not included). See connecting a scale to a computer by USB or RS-232.

Power: AC adapter and battery pack

• The EK-6100i ships with its AC adapter; use the adapter supplied for the EK-i series.
• For cordless work add the EKW-09i rechargeable battery pack (not included). It fits the option slot on the back, the same slot the comparator relay option uses, so you fit one or the other.
• Charge the pack with the AC adapter connected and the balance off; a full charge takes about 15 hours, and a new pack may need two or three charges to reach full capacity.
• Battery run time depends on the backlight and use, so set ltUp to a short timeout and turn on poff. Recharge or plug in when lb0 appears.
• Keep the adapter cord out of foot traffic; cut or pinched cords are a frequent repair. See replacing a scale cable.

EK-6100i error messages

Display	Meaning	What to do
E	Overload (over 6000 g)	Remove the load
-E	Strong upward force on the sensor	Check for anything caught around the pan
error5	Unexpected load	Clear the pan and check that the pan and support are seated
lo	Unit or 100 percent weight too light	Use more pieces (0.1 g minimum unit) or a reference of 10 g or more
Cal E / -Cal E	Calibration weight too heavy / too light	Check the weight and the value you entered; press MODE
error1	Reading never settles	Stop drafts and vibration; press MODE
lb0	Battery pack discharged	Recharge or use the AC adapter
Hb1	AC adapter voltage too high	Use the correct EK-i adapter

If error2, error3, error4 or error6 returns after a power cycle with an empty pan, send it to our repair bench. Other brands’ codes are in our scale error codes guide, and drifting readings in scale will not zero or keeps drifting.

EK-6100i calibration: 6000 g factory value, 4000 g minimum

The EK-6100i calibrates with an external weight. A&D calls for calibration when the balance is first used, after a move, when the room changes and on a regular schedule. The CAL switch is the push-button on the back behind a small access plate, the same as on the EK-1200i in our EK-i calibration guide.

1. Warm up for at least 30 minutes with nothing on the pan.
2. Hold the CAL switch until Cal appears, then release it; the display shows Cal 0.
3. To use a weight other than 6000 g, press SAMPLE: SAMPLE picks the digit, RE-ZERO sets it, PRINT stores the new value. The value stays in memory after power-off.
4. With the pan empty, press PRINT to weigh zero; do not touch the pan. The display then shows the calibration value; to stop after the zero calibration only, press MODE here.
5. Place the weight that matches the displayed value in the center of the pan and press PRINT. When end appears, remove the weight and press CAL or MODE to return to weighing.

A&D asks for a weight of more than 2/3 of capacity, so use at least 4000 g on the EK-6100i. A 5 kg weight works after you set the value to 5000.0 g; a 6000 g combination matches the factory value. Our calibration weight classes guide explains which class suits a 0.1 g balance, and we stock calibration weights. Afterward, check a light load and one near 6 kg; our how often should a scale be calibrated guide helps set a schedule.

EK-6100i vs EK-3000i, EK-4100i and EK-6000i

Model (our listing)	Capacity x readability	Max. count	Linearity	NTEP
EK-3000i	3000 g x 0.1 g	30,000 pcs	±0.2 g	Not NTEP listed
EK-4100i	4000 g x 0.1 g	40,000 pcs	±0.2 g	Not NTEP listed
EK-6100i	6000 g x 0.1 g	60,000 pcs	±0.2 g	Not NTEP listed
EK-6000i	6000 g x 1 g	6000 pcs	±1 g	Class III (CC 04-019A4)

The three 0.1 g models differ only in capacity, so pick the one that covers your heaviest container plus load. The EK-6000i trades the 0.1 g step for a 1 g step and NTEP Class III approval. The EK-i series guide lists every model, and the EK-610i manual guide covers the 0.01 g sibling.

Selling by weight: choose the NTEP EK-6000i

The EK-6100i is built for lab, production, packing and inventory weighing at 0.1 g. NTEP Certificate of Conformance 04-019A4, listed as Active on NCWM’s certificate search on November 1, 2026, covers the EK-600i, EK-1200i, EK-6000i and EK-12Ki. The EK-6100i is not on it. For selling by weight up to 6 kg, choose the NTEP Class III A&D EK-6000i (6000 g x 1 g). Our what is NTEP guide explains the approval, and our free legal-for-trade scale checker helps decide whether your use is trade.

Texas note: TDA does not require an NTEP certificate for every device, but the scale must meet NIST Handbook 44 and suit its use; some scales do need one, so we recommend NTEP models and can check yours. See TDA’s scales used in trade guidance (PDF) and our TDA scale certification guide, or call us or TDA to confirm your use.

Who uses the EK-6100i

• Labs and schools: general weighing, sample batches and teaching labs that need 0.1 g up to 6 kg on a small footprint.
• Packing and shipping benches: checking kits and cartons against HI/OK/LO limits before they go out.
• Manufacturing and kitting: counting parts down to 0.1 g each, up to 60,000 pieces in one count.
• Kitchens and formulation rooms: batching ingredients and recipes up to 6 kg in 0.1 g steps.

Setup tips from our technicians

• Our TDA-registered technicians recalibrate after every move; a new bench changes readings, even at 0.1 g.
• Raise Cond one step under an air vent instead of chasing a wandering last digit.
• Use a light bin and tare it; a heavy steel tote eats into the 6000 g capacity.
• Place loads in the center of the pan; off-center loads near capacity show up in the last digit.
• Wipe the pan with a damp cloth and mild detergent; skip solvents on the housing.

Common mistakes we see

• Calibrating with a 2 kg weight; the EK-6100i needs at least 4000 g.
• Changing the calibration value and forgetting it stays in memory, so the next person uses the wrong weight.
• Counting small parts with a 5-piece sample and ignoring the 25 - prompt.
• Hiding units in Unit and then thinking the balance lost grams.
• Weighing before the 30-minute warm-up is over.

Browse all A&D precision balances.

Calibration, repair and rentals from MNM Scales

• Book calibration: the EK-6100i is in our 2.2 to 6.2 kg tier: in-house calibration with a certificate is $195 and NIST calibration with a NIST-traceable certificate is $495. See our balance calibration service in Houston, all tiers on the scale calibration service page, and NIST vs in-house certificates.
• Mail-in calibration: pack the balance in its original box and foam and ship it with the mail-in calibration service.
• Cypress pickup by appointment: drop off or pick up at our Cypress, TX shop (21249 FM 529 Rd, Cypress, TX 77433).
• On-site service: on-site calibration is $295 plus $2 per mile, round trip, once per visit, plus the calibration fee for each scale. Our TDA-registered technicians bring certified test weights to labs, packing rooms, kitchens and production lines across the Houston area.
• Repair: display, keypad, adapter and load cell problems go to our scale repair bench.
• Rentals: we rent all types of scales; ask about a scale rental while yours is in for service.

Frequently asked questions

Where can I download the A&D EK-6100i manual?

A&D publishes the EK-i/EW-i instruction manual, which covers the EK-6100i, on its EK-6100i product page. This guide collects the EK-6100i numbers from it.

How do I calibrate the EK-6100i?

Warm it up for 30 minutes, hold the CAL switch until Cal appears and release it. At Cal 0, press PRINT with the pan empty, place the 6000 g weight (or the value you set) and press PRINT. When end appears, remove the weight and press CAL or MODE.

What weight do I need to calibrate the EK-6100i?

The factory value is 6000 g. A&D asks for more than 2/3 of capacity, so any weight of at least 4000 g works once you enter its value at Cal 0 with the SAMPLE key.

How do I change units on the EK-6100i?

Press MODE to step through the stored units. To choose which units are stored, hold SAMPLE until func appears, go to Unit, press PRINT, turn units on or off with SAMPLE and RE-ZERO and store with PRINT.

What is the smallest part the EK-6100i can count?

The minimum unit weight is 0.1 g at the factory setting, and the balance counts up to 60,000 pieces from samples of 5, 10, 25, 50 or 100.

Can the EK-6100i weigh below the balance?

Yes. It accepts A&D’s under-hook assembly (OP-07 in the manual), which is not included. Calibrate with the weight hung on the hook for accurate below-balance weighing.

Is the EK-6100i NTEP approved?

No. The EK-6100i is not listed on NTEP CC 04-019A4, which covers the EK-600i, EK-1200i, EK-6000i and EK-12Ki. For selling by weight up to 6 kg, choose the NTEP Class III A&D EK-6000i.

What does Cal E mean on the EK-6100i?

Cal E means the calibration weight was too heavy for the value set, and -Cal E means it was too light. Check the weight and the value, then press MODE and start again.